Cooking salmon in the air fryer is a game changer. Not only does it yield tender and succulent results, but it also takes just 10 minutes from start to finish. This low-carb recipe is perfect for those quick weeknight dinners when you want something delicious and healthy on the table in no time.
Ingredients for Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil cooking spray
Equipment:
- Air fryer
- Tongs
- Baking paper
Instructions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Season the salmon fillets with minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Place a sheet of baking paper at the bottom of the air fryer basket. This will prevent the salmon from sticking to the basket.
- Spray the baking paper with olive oil cooking spray.
- Place the seasoned salmon fillets on top of the baking paper in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space between them for even cooking.
- Close the air fryer and cook the salmon for 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Check for doneness after 7 minutes by gently inserting a fork into the thickest part of the salmon. It should easily flake apart and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, carefully remove the salmon fillets from the air fryer using tongs to avoid breaking them.
- Serve immediately with your choice of salad, grains, or vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips:
- To achieve optimal crispiness, it is important to preheat the air fryer before cooking the salmon.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Leaving enough space between the salmon fillets ensures even cooking and prevents them from steaming instead of frying.
- If you prefer a smokier flavor, you can substitute paprika with smoked paprika.
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the salmon fillets for additional flavor. Dill, lemon zest, or chili flakes work well with salmon.
Health Benefits:
Salmon is not only delicious, but it is also incredibly nutritious. It is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and reducing inflammation in the body. Omega-3s have also been linked to improved heart health and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
Additionally, salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It also contains important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, selenium, and potassium.
By cooking salmon in the air fryer, you can enjoy all these health benefits without adding extra oil or unhealthy fats. The air fryer method keeps the salmon moist and flavorful while reducing the amount of added calories.
Cooking Tip:
If you have leftovers, don’t let them go to waste. Cold air-fried salmon makes a delicious addition to salads or sandwiches the next day. Flake the leftover salmon and mix it with your favorite greens, veggies, and a light dressing for a healthy and satisfying lunch.
Now that you have learned how to cook salmon in the air fryer, it’s time to get cooking and enjoy the delightful flavors and health benefits of this simple yet impressive dish. Remember to experiment with different seasonings and pairings to make it your own.
Cooking salmon in the air fryer yields tender, succulent results in just 10 minutes. This low-carb recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners. Seasoned with garlic and paprika, it’s a delightful, restaurant-quality dish. Serve with salad, grains, or vegetables for a complete meal. Remember to preheat the air fryer and avoid overcrowding the basket for optimal crispiness. Whether it’s for a family meal or a solo dinner, air fryer salmon is sure to impress with its simplicity and flavor.